Dr. Lauren Hale's Sleep Deprivation Talk on Disparities

In her sleep deprivation talk, Dr. Lauren Hale analyzes the social patterning of sleep and the consequences of deprivation, disorders and disparities. Her aim is to raise awareness about what she refers to as an under-recognized public health and social justice issue.

The Associate Professor of Preventative Medicine identifies three prevalent problems such as adequate sleep duration, sleep apnea and insomnia, the latter two affecting a concerning percent of the United States population. She notes socially disadvantaged people are at a higher risk of sleep deprivation and disorders due to a disparity in education, living area and race. Other relevant factors are social and romantic relationships, employment, the American lifestyle and mental health.

Dr. Hale's sleep deprivation talk advocates policy change as a solution to this often cyclical problem.